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India is a land of diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. While many travelers may avoid visiting during the monsoon season, there is a certain charm and beauty in experiencing the rains in this magical country. In this article, we will explore 20 spectacular monsoon destinations in India that will change your opinion about traveling during this season. From hill stations to waterfalls, coffee plantations to ancient forts, India offers a plethora of options for a memorable monsoon vacation.
1. Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is one of the most beautiful monsoon destinations in India. Located in the state of Karnataka, it is blessed with breathtaking scenery, including vast coffee plantations and misty mountains. During the monsoon season, the Abbey and Jog waterfalls come alive, creating a mesmerizing sight. Adventure enthusiasts can embark on a trek to Tadiandamol, the highest peak in Coorg, known for its stunning views. Other attractions include Bylekuppe, Madikeri Fort, and the Golden Temple.
Famous for: Hill Stations, Waterfalls, and Coffee Plantations
Major Tourist Attractions: Raja's Seat, Abbey Falls, Kaveri River, Madikeri Fort, Golden Temple, Nagarhole National Park
Temperature: Minimum 23°C and Maximum 26°C
How to reach Coorg
Coorg is approximately 270 km away from Bangalore and can be reached by road in about 5 hours. The nearest airport is Mysore Airport, and the closest railway station is Mysore Junction railway station.
2. Shillong, Meghalaya
Nestled in the abode of clouds, Shillong in Meghalaya is a top monsoon destination in India. Known for its captivating beauty, this hill town comes alive during the monsoons with misty clouds, lush greenery, and roaring waterfalls. The must-visit attractions during the rainy season include Elephant Falls and Spread Eagle Falls. Indulge in the local delicacies and explore the vibrant bazaars of Shillong for a truly memorable experience.
Major Tourist Attractions: Mawlynnong, Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Don Bosco Museum, Mawsynram
Temperature: Minimum 12°C and Maximum 13°C
How to reach Shillong
The nearest airport and railway station for Shillong are located in Guwahati, Assam, at a distance of 149 km. The best way to reach the hill station during the monsoon is by road. National Highway 40 connects Shillong with other towns.
3. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar, located in Kerala, is truly a paradise during the monsoon season. This hill station is known for its lush green tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, and cascading waterfalls. The beauty of Munnar is enhanced during the rains, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Explore the tea estates, visit the iconic Eravikulam National Park, and enjoy a boat ride in the serene backwaters of Munnar.
Famous for: Tea Plantations, Waterfalls, and Backwaters
Major Tourist Attractions: Eravikulam National Park, Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak, Kundala Lake
Temperature: Minimum 18°C and Maximum 25°C
How to reach Munnar
The nearest airport to Munnar is Cochin International Airport, which is approximately 110 km away. The closest railway station is Aluva, located about 110 km from Munnar. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the hill station.
4. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur, known as the "City of Lakes," is a charming destination to visit during the monsoon season. The city is dotted with beautiful lakes, palaces, and gardens, which come alive with the first drops of rain. Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, visit the majestic City Palace, and explore the narrow lanes of the old city. Udaipur's romantic ambiance and stunning architecture make it a must-visit destination in Rajasthan.
Famous for: Lakes, Palaces, and Gardens
Major Tourist Attractions: City Palace, Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir, Saheliyon ki Bari, Jagdish Temple
Temperature: Minimum 24°C and Maximum 31°C
How to reach Udaipur
Udaipur has its own airport, Maharana Pratap Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. The city is also easily accessible by train, with Udaipur City railway station being the main railway hub.
5. Goa
Goa, the beach paradise of India, is an ideal destination for a monsoon getaway. While the peak tourist season is during the winter months, Goa has its own charm during the rainy season. Enjoy the lush green landscapes, take a leisurely stroll on the beaches, and indulge in the local seafood delicacies. Goa is also famous for its vibrant monsoon festivals, such as Sao Joao and Bonderam.
Famous for: Beaches, Nightlife, and Water Sports
Major Tourist Attractions: Calangute Beach, Baga Beach, Fort Aguada, Dudhsagar Falls, Old Goa
Temperature: Minimum 24°C and Maximum 30°C
How to reach Goa
Goa has its own international airport, Dabolim Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad. The state also has two major railway stations, Vasco da Gama and Madgaon, which are connected to various parts of the country.
6. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal, often referred to as the "Princess of Hill Stations," is a picturesque destination in Tamil Nadu. The monsoon season brings a refreshing charm to this hill station, with mist-covered valleys, blooming flowers, and gushing waterfalls. Take a boat ride in the serene Kodaikanal Lake, visit the beautiful Coaker's Walk, and explore the enchanting Bryant Park.
Famous for: Hill Station, Lake, and Waterfalls
Major Tourist Attractions: Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker's Walk, Bryant Park, Pillar Rocks, Silver Cascade Falls
Temperature: Minimum 17°C and Maximum 22°C
How to reach Kodaikanal
The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai Airport, which is approximately 120 km away. The closest railway station is Kodai Road, located at a distance of 80 km. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kodaikanal.
7. Matheran, Maharashtra
Matheran, a serene hill station in Maharashtra, is a perfect monsoon getaway. This eco-sensitive region is known for its lush green forests, breathtaking viewpoints, and toy train rides. Explore the scenic beauty of Matheran by taking a leisurely walk or a horse ride. Don't miss the panoramic views from the famous viewpoints like Panorama Point and Louisa Point.
Famous for: Hill Station and Panoramic Views
Major Tourist Attractions: Panorama Point, Louisa Point, Charlotte Lake, Echo Point, King George Point
Temperature: Minimum 18°C and Maximum 24°C
How to reach Matheran
The nearest airport to Matheran is Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad. The hill station is easily accessible by train, with Neral being the nearest railway station. From Neral, you can take the toy train or a taxi to reach Matheran.
8. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling, located in the state of West Bengal, is a popular hill station known for its tea gardens and the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the "Toy Train." During the monsoon season, the town is enveloped in mist, making it even more charming. Enjoy a cup of Darjeeling tea, visit the Tiger Hill for a breathtaking sunrise view, and explore the vibrant markets of Darjeeling.
Famous for: Hill Station and Tea Gardens
Major Tourist Attractions: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Rock Garden
Temperature: Minimum 17°C and Maximum 22°C
How to reach Darjeeling
The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. The town is also accessible by train, with New Jalpaiguri being the nearest railway station. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach Darjeeling.
9. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
Mahabaleshwar, located in the Sahyadri mountain range of Maharashtra, is a popular hill station known for its strawberry farms and beautiful viewpoints. The monsoon season brings lush greenery to this hill station, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Take a leisurely boat ride in Venna Lake, visit the famous viewpoints like Arthur's Seat and Wilson Point, and indulge in the delicious local strawberries.
Famous for: Hill Station and Strawberry Farms
Major Tourist Attractions: Venna Lake, Arthur's Seat, Wilson Point, Pratapgad Fort, Lingmala Waterfall
Temperature: Minimum 20°C and Maximum 25°C
How to reach Mahabaleshwar
The nearest airport to Mahabaleshwar is Pune International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. The town is also accessible by train, with Wathar being the nearest railway station. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mahabaleshwar.
10. Wayanad, Kerala
Wayanad, located in the northern part of Kerala, is a picturesque destination known for its dense forests, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. The monsoon season enhances the beauty of Wayanad, with its mist-covered mountains and rejuvenating rain showers. Explore the mesmerizing Edakkal Caves, visit the beautiful Soochipara Waterfalls, and embark on a wildlife safari in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
Famous for: Natural Beauty, Waterfalls, and Wildlife
Major Tourist Attractions: Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Waterfalls, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Banasura Sagar Dam, Pookode Lake
Temperature: Minimum 20°C and Maximum 25°C
How to reach Wayanad
The nearest airport to Wayanad is Calicut International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad. The town is also accessible by train, with Kozhikode being the nearest railway station. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Wayanad.
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